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  • Stein on Writing

  • A Master Editor Shares His Craft, Techniques, and Strategies
  • By: Sol Stein
  • Narrated by: Christopher Lane
  • Length: 11 hrs and 17 mins
  • 4.5 out of 5 stars (325 ratings)

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Stein on Writing

By: Sol Stein
Narrated by: Christopher Lane
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Summary

Stein on Writing provides immediately useful advice for writers of fiction and nonfiction, whether newcomers or accomplished professionals. As Sol Stein, renowned editor, author, and instructor, explains, "This is not a book of theory. It is a book of usable solutions, how to fix writing that is flawed, how to improve writing that is good, how to create interesting writing in the first place." With examples from his best sellers as well as aspiring students' writing, Stein offers detailed sections on characterization, dialogue, pacing, flashbacks, liposuctioning flab, the "triage" method of revision, using the techniques of fiction to enliven nonfiction, and more.
©1995 Sol Stein (P)2003 Blackstone Audiobooks

What listeners say about Stein on Writing

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5 star

Not a dull moment. So much valuable advice that I have now purchased the hard copy and will re-read with a highlighter in hand!

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great

very informative. well read. I liked it a lot. I even brought one of his books while I was listening to this. that was great as well .. The Magician.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Great advice, grating narration

The advice is detailed and concise. If you can get by the wood file voice, you'll enjoy some learning.

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excellent

I loved listening to Sol Stein's book with it's clear well structured advice on writing. I picked up so many tips and am inspired to write now more than ever. a great inspiration. I enjoyed Christopher Lane's vocals throughout. he was clear, concise and easy to listen to. Well done.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Working on it.

There is much to digest so chew slowly and do not choke. On a par with listening to good music; enjoyable, entertaining, thought provoking and insightful. Soon. The time is soon.

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    4 out of 5 stars

Inspiring, meaningful and practical.

Stein tells his experience in the craft and helps authors to get published. Not your usual writing manual. I found it way more inspirational than other similar books, and gaering from an insider was very nourishing.

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Insightful advice for writers

Enjoyed the layout of the book. years of experience managing to be distilled down. enjoyed it

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  • PD
  • 22-08-13

The Midas Touch

What did you like most about Stein on Writing?

I have bought loads of how to write books over the years - Stein on Writing is simply the best. Where other books can be vague or overgeneralised, Stein is clear and precise. Many how to write books have great ideas about what you need to do but give little clue as to how to do it - Stein richly illustrates the points he makes and develops exercises to enable the reader to make breakthroughs in their approach to writing.

What about Christopher Lane’s performance did you like?

Christopher Lane is the best reader for this type of book - one that you do not notice - instead you find yourself transported directly to Stein's writing.

Any additional comments?

This book is not just a conventional outline of the usual requirements of good writing - instead it is a thoughtful and insightful collection of wise, hard won insights that can transform you as a writer. Stein has the Midas touch - this book can turn your work into writing gold.

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8 people found this helpful

  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars

Great Audiobook on Writing

I have tried several audiobooks on writing and this is one of the best. The chapters are all subject related and this makes it easy to browse and listen again (which is well worth doing). The examples are very useful and the general approach very pragmatic.

Highly recommended

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7 people found this helpful

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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Consise and to the point

One of the best books on writing. No fluff, no boring stories to pad out the book, just the essence of writing.
I got this book because I want to write a screenplay. Many of the books on how to write a screenplay is a rehash of 'Save the Cat' and they all end up telling you what's supposed to happen page by page.

The sample clip may sound a little boring but the content is so well written and edited that the book is an easy listen, it's like the author knows the book is good so he can give it to you straight, no song and dance number to trick you into thinking it was good.

Highly recommended!

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